Magica is a band from Romania. With the female fronted line-up and the name Magica, I expected to hear some gothic metal, but it turns out to be melodic power metal. Names as Nightwish, Angra, Sonata Arctica and even Rhapsody of Fire come to mind if you listen to this band. It’s their fifth release and certainly their best. The trouble on previous albums was mostly the voice of Ana, which, although she had a classical training, wasn’t really suited for this kind of music. They are often compared with Nightwish, which is correct when you listen to the instruments, but Ana certainly is no Tarja or Anette Olzon. But she has improved a lot, or maybe the production is giving her voice a better sound.The musicians are certainly skilled enough to perform this speedy power metal. Drums, keyboards and guitar sometimes seem to hold a speed contest, but without being annoying or obstructing the melodies.You have to wait for the final track to finally hear a quiet piece, “Dark Diary”, accompanied greatly by the piano, but that lasts only two minutes. This album could have used at least one more ballad, to add some more variation and emotion.The opening song is the best track, but “Release my Demons”, “On the Side of Evil” and “My Kin My Enemy” also attach to your brain, after you hear them a few times.If you love like bands like Nightwish, you should certainly try this out.

01. Anywhere But Home 4:2302. Tonight 3:3403. Never Like You 4:0004. Wait For Me 4:2005. Need 4:0106. Release My Demons 4:0907. On The Side Of Evil 4:2208. My Kin My Enemy 4:0709. Used To Be An Angel 3:3510. We Are Horde 4:2311. Dear Diary 1:53